WARRINGTON Wolves have confirmed the double signing of James Bentley and Josh Smith to further bolster the squad for next season.
The duo are the latest editions to the playing squad for 2026, with Bentley signing a 12-month contract and Smith a two-year deal.
Bentley brings a wealth of quality and experience to the back row, having made 181 club appearances and eight international caps for Ireland. The 28-year-old second-rower lifted both the Super League Grand Final trophy and two League Leaders’ Shields during his time with St Helens. He will be sponsored by PH Financial Planning Ltd.
Smith will add fresh and exciting talent to the outside-backs, and boasts an impressive scoring record across his career to date, notching 41 tries in 76 appearances.
A tenacious competitor, the 24-year-old was voted the Brisbane Tigers’ Player of the Year in a season where he made the most run metres (3648) across the entire Hotplus Cup, including topping the charts for post-contact metres (1350). He will be sponsored by Forster Dean Solicitors.
James Bentley said: “I’m really excited to be joining Warrington. It’s a fantastic club and I’ve had some tough battles against them over the years. The squad that’s coming together is really exciting. I can’t wait to get started and rip into pre-season, work with Sam to build my game, and do my bit to help the team have a big year.”
Josh Smith said: “I am very grateful and excited for the opportunity ahead of myself at Warrington and it is a move that definitely excites me, especially after talking to Gary and Sam about the club and the future aspirations.
“I have always looked at Super League from afar and been a fan of it, so this is an opportunity that I wanted to take with both hands, to challenge myself and also take my game to another level personally.
“I am excited to get over there, meet my new teammates, coaches, fans and begin working for 2026!”
On his newest recruits, Head Coach Sam Burgess said: “James is a fantastic addition for us at Warrington. He’s got great Super League experience, is a fierce competitor, and we’re looking forward to seeing the impact he can make within our playing group.
“Josh is an exciting centre with great potential. We’re looking forward to welcoming him into our group and for him to make his mark over here in Super League.”
